Coxey Good Roads Bill

Definition

The Coxey Good Roads Bill was a proposal introduced in 1894 by Jacob Coxey, advocating for federal investment in public works to create jobs and improve infrastructure during the economic hardship of the Panic of 1893. This bill symbolized the broader Progressive movement's focus on addressing social issues through government intervention, reflecting the growing discontent among the working class and the push for reforms to alleviate poverty and unemployment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jacob Coxey led a march on Washington in 1894 to demand government action on unemployment, which highlighted the desperation of many Americans during the economic crisis.
2. The Coxey Good Roads Bill proposed funding to create jobs through public works projects, particularly focusing on building and repairing roads.
3. Although the bill gained significant attention, it ultimately failed to pass in Congress, reflecting the reluctance of lawmakers to intervene directly in economic matters.
4. The march organized by Coxey is often considered one of the first instances of a mass protest advocating for economic reform in American history.
5. Coxey's efforts laid the groundwork for future Progressive initiatives that sought to use government resources to tackle social problems and improve infrastructure.

Review Questions

• How did the Coxey Good Roads Bill reflect the economic and social conditions of the time?
  • The Coxey Good Roads Bill emerged during a period of severe economic distress following the Panic of 1893. It reflected widespread frustration among the unemployed and working-class citizens who were struggling with poverty. The bill's focus on federal investment in public works illustrated a growing belief that government should take an active role in creating jobs and addressing social issues, a significant shift from previous laissez-faire attitudes.
• Evaluate the impact of Jacob Coxey's march on Washington in relation to the public's perception of government responsibility during this era.
  • Jacob Coxey's march on Washington brought national attention to the plight of unemployed workers and set a precedent for future demonstrations advocating for government action. By gathering thousands to demand federal investment in job creation through the Coxey Good Roads Bill, it challenged prevailing attitudes about government responsibility for economic welfare. The event sparked discussions about government intervention, contributing to a gradual shift towards more progressive policies aimed at addressing social inequalities.
• Analyze how the failure of the Coxey Good Roads Bill influenced subsequent progressive movements and reforms in American politics.
  • The failure of the Coxey Good Roads Bill highlighted significant resistance within Congress to direct government intervention in economic matters. However, it also catalyzed future progressive movements that continued to push for reforms addressing unemployment and infrastructure needs. Over time, this led to a series of successful initiatives that transformed federal policy, including New Deal programs during the Great Depression, demonstrating how early efforts like Coxey's laid foundational ideas for more robust government involvement in economic and social issues.

Related terms

Progressive Era:

A period of widespread social activism and political reform in the United States from the 1890s to the 1920s, aimed at addressing issues caused by industrialization, urbanization, and corruption.

Panic of 1893:

A severe economic depression that began in 1893, marked by bank failures, high unemployment, and significant declines in industrial output, leading to widespread social unrest.

Populism:

A political movement that emerged in the late 19th century, advocating for the interests of ordinary people, particularly farmers and laborers, often in opposition to established elites and corporations.